Java, one of the best coding languages for beginners, is a great way to dive into coding and computer science. From learning the foundation of programming (used for the AP exam since 2004!) to building complex systems, this language is essential to any coder’s toolbox.
Used by over 5.5 billion devices worldwide, Java is one of the most popular and versatile programming languages out there. And since the best way to learn is by doing, we’ve gathered the top nine websites for free Java practice.
Practice makes a programmer, after all.
| Platform | Best For | Key Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CodingBat | Building Fundamentals | Short, focused exercises organized by topic; immediate feedback; progressive difficulty | Free |
| CodeWars | Intermediate Programmers | Gamified challenges (katas); community collaboration; ranks and achievements | Free to try |
| LeetCode | Advanced Problem-Solving | Thousands of problems; interview prep; detailed solutions; data structures & algorithms | Free tier available |
| SoloLearn | Mobile Learners | Mobile app & web platform; interactive code playground; 15-minute lessons | Free to try |
| HackerRank | Structured Learning | Tutorials + practice problems; organized by difficulty; interview prep tracks; competitions | Free to try |
| Exercism | Mentor-Supported Learning | Self-paced practice; real volunteer mentor feedback; professional coding practices | Free |
| CodeGym | Younger/Gamified Learners | Game-like quests; achievements; immediate practice after lessons; high engagement | Free tier + paid |
| GeeksforGeeks | Comprehensive Reference | Exhaustive tutorials; code examples; practice questions; deep explanations | Free |
| CodeAbbey | Repetition-Based Learners | Hundreds of problems; coding games; user-ranked tasks; varied difficulty levels | Free |
| Test Automation U | Career-Focused Learners | Specialized learning paths; web development; app-building; testing frameworks | Free to try |
Practice Java for Free with These 10 websites
Through these free (or free to try) platforms, it’s easy for kids, teens, and beginners to explore Java and get ready to pursue more and more advanced coding projects.
1. CodingBat: Perfect for Building Fundamentals
CodingBat is one of the most beginner-friendly Java practice websites out there, and for good reason. This platform focuses on short, focused exercises that help learners practice specific Java concepts without overwhelming them with complexity.
The beauty of CodingBat is that simplicity. Get a problem, write the code, and get immediate feedback. There's no complicated interface to navigate, no confusing setup process—just pure, straightforward practice.
The exercises are organized by topic, so learners can target exactly what they want to work on: loops, arrays, strings, logic problems, and more.
Why CodingBat Works
The platform breaks down Java practice into bite-sized chunks. Each problem typically takes just a few minutes to solve, which means learners can fit practice into their schedules without it feeling like a massive time commitment. Plus, the problems progress in difficulty, so aspiring programmers constantly being challenged without hitting a wall.
Learn more: Is codingbat a good resource to learn Java? - Quora
2. CodeWars: Gamified Learning for Intermediate Programmers
CodeWars transforms skill development into an engaging competitive experience, making it ideal if learners already have some programming foundation and want to accelerate their Java proficiency.
The platform's genius lies in its dual approach: solve coding challenges (called "katas") that increase in difficulty, while simultaneously engaging with a vibrant community. Rather than working in isolation, CodeWars encourages collaboration—people can compare your solutions with friends, learn from different approaches to the same problem, and participate in community-developed challenges.
The competitive element matters
Gamification isn't just fun; it's psychologically effective. Earning ranks, unlocking achievements, and seeing progress visualized keeps motivation high during the inevitable plateaus that occur in any learning journey.
Learn more:
- How do you guys feel about Codewars? : r/learnprogramming - Reddit
- Is Codewars worth your time? The honest review. - YouTube
- Opinions on codewars to practice code? - You Can Do This!
3. LeetCode: Level Up Your Problem-Solving Skills
If your child is ready to move beyond the absolute basics and tackle more challenging problems, LeetCode is where serious Java learners go. This platform hosts thousands of coding problems, many of which are actual interview questions from major tech companies.
LeetCode's strength lies in its depth. You'll find problems ranging from easy to hard, covering data structures, algorithms, dynamic programming, and more. The platform also provides detailed solutions and explanations for each problem, which means kids are both practicing and learning the reasoning behind different approaches.
The LeetCode Experience
Yes, LeetCode has a learning curve. The interface can feel intimidating at first, and the problems are genuinely challenging. But that's exactly why it's so valuable. Once your child gets comfortable with LeetCode, they'll have tackled problems that prepare them for real-world coding challenges and technical interviews.
Learn more:
- Is Leetcode good or bad for software developers? - Reddit
- Is LeetCode Bad? An Honest Take. - Medium
- What is your review of Leetcode? - Quora
- Is LeetCode worth it? - The freeCodeCamp Forum
4. SoloLearn: Learning on Your Terms
SoloLearn recognizes that modern learners don't always have the luxury of sitting at a desk for extended study sessions. This platform offers Java courses through both a mobile app and web platform, making it genuinely accessible whether learners are commuting, waiting in line, or stealing 15 minutes during lunch.
The interactive code playground is particularly valuable—it's not just reading about Java concepts, but also writing and executing code immediately. The platform includes hundreds of interactive exercises that provide instant feedback, helping learners identify misunderstandings before they become ingrained habits.
Why the mobile-first approach matters
Consistency beats intensity in learning. Ten minutes daily on SoloLearn builds stronger habits and retention than sporadic three-hour study sessions.
Learn more:
- An honest review of Sololearn so far... : r/learnprogramming - Reddit
- Sololearn: Learn to Code - Ratings & Reviews - App Store - Apple
- What are people's opinions on SoloLearn as a beginner Python ...
5. HackerRank: Structured Learning Paths
HackerRank offers a more structured approach to Java practice. The platform provides tutorials alongside practice problems, which means students are learning concepts and then immediately applying them.
The site is organized by difficulty level and topic, making it easy to find exactly what learners need. Whether your child wants to practice basic syntax, work through data structure problems, or tackle more advanced algorithms, HackerRank has a clear path forward.
What Makes HackerRank Stand Out
The platform includes interview preparation tracks, which is perfect if your child is thinking ahead to college or career opportunities. HackerRank also hosts competitions and challenges with real prizes, which can be incredibly motivating for young coders looking to test their skills against others.
Learn more:
- Is HackerRank a good way to learn how to program? - Reddit
- HackerRank Reviews, Ratings & Features 2026 | Gartner Peer Insights
- HackerRank Developer Skills Platform Reviews & Product Details - G2
6. Exercism: Free, Mentor-Supported Practice
Exercism is a unique platform because it combines self-paced practice with actual human feedback. Learners solve exercises, submit code, and real volunteer mentors review the work and provide guidance.
This is particularly valuable for Java learners because they get personalized feedback on their code. A mentor might point out that they're not following Java naming conventions, or suggest a more efficient approach to solving a problem. This kind of targeted feedback accelerates learning in ways that automated checking simply can't match.
Why Mentor Feedback Matters
When someone with real Java experience reviews the code and explains why certain practices are better than others, it sticks. Students are learning to write code the way professional developers do.
Learn more:
- Is exercism.org a good starting point? : r/learnpython - Reddit
- Is Exercism meant only for people who already have some ...
7. CodeGym: Gamified Learning With Immediate Practice
CodeGym combines lessons with practice in a highly interactive environment. The platform uses game-like elements to keep learners engaged, with quests, achievements, and progress tracking that make the learning journey feel like an adventure rather than a chore.
The structure is particularly good for younger learners or those who benefit from immediate feedback. Learn a concept, then immediately practice it with multiple exercises before moving on. This reinforcement helps concepts stick.
The CodeGym Model
CodeGym does require a paid subscription for full access to all content, but the free tier provides a solid introduction to Java fundamentals. If your child enjoys the platform, the paid version unlocks significantly more content and features.
Learn more:
- What's your opinion on CodeGym? : r/learnjava - Reddit
- CodeGym Review (How Good Is It?) - YouTube
- Reviews - CodeGym
- CodeGym.cc Reviews 2026: Details, Pricing, & Features | G2
8. GeeksforGeeks: Comprehensive Reference and Practice
GeeksforGeeks is another resource library that includes practice problems alongside tutorials. The site covers Java topics exhaustively, with explanations, code examples, and practice questions for nearly everything.
The platform is particularly useful when learners need to understand the "why" behind a concept. GeeksforGeeks explains the underlying principles and shows you multiple examples.
Making the Most of GeeksforGeeks
Because GeeksforGeeks is so comprehensive, it can feel overwhelming at first. The key is using it strategically: when learning a new topic, find the relevant article, read through it, and work through the examples. Then move to a practice platform to reinforce what has been learned.
Learn more:
- Geeksforgeeks not a good place to get started with programming
- What is your review of GeeksforGeeks? - Quora
9. CodeAbbey: Unlimited Practice and Challenges
If your child is the type of learner who believes mastery comes through repetition and problem-solving, CodeAbbey is an ideal platform. This site hosts hundreds of practice problems, coding games, exercises, and user-ranked tasks—essentially unlimited opportunities to apply Java concepts.
The variety is crucial. Different problems approach similar concepts from different angles, building deeper understanding than repetitive identical exercises. The user-ranking system also means students can tackle challenges at their appropriate difficulty level rather than being locked into a predetermined sequence.
The gamification element
CodeAbbey's game-based challenges make practice feel less like grinding and more like play. This psychological shift is surprisingly powerful for maintaining long-term learning motivation.
Learn more: Anyone here use Code Abbey? : r/learnprogramming - Reddit
10. Test Automation U: Specialized Learning Paths
Test Automation U takes a different approach than general coding platforms, as it offers self-guided learning tracks focused on specific applications of programming knowledge. Beyond Java fundamentals, students can explore web development, app-building, and other specialized domains.
This specialization is valuable if you're learning Java with a specific career goal in mind. It's about learning Java for something—whether that's building web applications, creating mobile apps, or developing testing frameworks.
Why specialization matters:
Motivation increases dramatically when students see the direct connection between what they're learning and what they'll build.
Best for: Learners with specific career goals who want to build Java skills within a particular application domain.
Get ahead in tech with Java
To help get your child started on this path with guidance from the experts, iD Tech offers virtual small group Java classes, 1-on-1 Java tutoring lessons, and Java summer camps that will help launch amazing STEM journeys for kids and teens.
Plus, if your child is excited to combine their interests through interdisciplinary projects, they can explore Java coding with Minecraft! Yes, Minecraft can be educational, especially when combined with coding. Check out our latest course offerings, including Minecraft Modding with Java tutoring and in-person summer camps.